Earlobe Repair

If you have torn or stretched earlobes, you can benefit from earlobe repair in Houston with Dr. Norris in Houston. This procedure is necessary when patients experience accidents or have worn large, heavy earrings for a long time.

For a plastic surgeon, earlobe repair in Houston is a simple procedure. It can restore a normal appearance to your ear and, if desired, it can allow re-piercing a few months later.

When to Consider Earlobe Repair in Houston

People who undergo earlobe repair have experienced conditions like:

Lacerated/torn earlobe

Elongated earlobe

Stretched earlobe

Injuries or defects like this are often caused when earrings are forcefully pulled from the person’s ear. Also, heavy earrings and large earlobe plugs can stretch the ear to the point of looking unnatural.

Plastic surgeons also perform procedures that can correct problems like lop ear, cupped ear and shell ear. In some cases, surgeons can even build new ears for patients who were born without ears or who lost them during a traumatic injury.

The Procedure: How Earlobe Repair is Performed

Earlobe repair is usually performed with local anesthesia. Dr. Norris will first stabilize the ear. Then he will create an incision that removes skin around the torn earlobe. Clean edges of the tissue are then sewn together to close the split. Patients usually tolerate the procedure very well and appreciate the fact that it restores a normal-looking earlobe.

Recovery from Earlobe Repair in Houston

Dr. Norris will give you instructions to follow after earlobe repair expect some minor swelling and discomfort during the recovery. For a few days, a dressing will cover the treated ear. Sutures are usually removed during a follow-up appointment scheduled within two weeks.

Am I a good candidate for earlobe repair surgery?

Candidates for earlobe repair are individuals with stretched or torn earlobes. In most cases, the earlobes become stretched from wearing heavy earrings or gauges. They may also become torn after earrings are caught on clothing or other objects, or pulled by a child. Ideal candidates for surgery will possess good overall physical and mental health.

Will surgery be painful?

As with most surgical procedures, a certain level of discomfort should be expected. The procedure is performed under local anesthetic to numb the earlobes. Pain is often minimal and you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

Earlobe repair is a very quick procedure, often taking no more than 45 minutes to complete both lobes. There is also no down time associated with the procedure. In most cases, you will be able to leave the office immediately upon completion.

Are there any significant risks associated with earlobe repair surgery?

As with any surgery, earlobe repair does present a degree of risk. Complications may include infection, poor healing or some scarring from the incision. However, when performed by a qualified surgeon, complications associated with earlobe repair are very rare and usually minor.

How soon can I get my ears pierced after earlobe repair?

Most patients seeking earlobe repair wish to have their earlobes re-pierced following surgery. If you plan to re-pierce your ears, it is recommended that you wait at least 2 months to allow your earlobes to fully heal from surgery.

Do you have questions about earlobe repair in Houston? Contact our Houston plastic surgery practice to learn more about the options in earlobe repair and ear surgery.